DWP launches campaign to help pensioners claim up to £71 extra each month

The Department for Work and Pensions has rolled out a new campaign to encourage pension-age citizens to claim additional financial assistance. The initiative focuses on Savings Credit, a means-tested benefit that can provide up to £71.94 per month for single claimants and a similar weekly amount for couples, provided they reached State Pension age before 6 April 2016. Unlike the Guarantee Credit, Savings Credit may still be available to those whose income exceeds the basic threshold, and savings do not automatically bar eligibility.

The DWP stresses that many older people mistakenly believe they cannot apply because of their savings or earnings. To assist, the department offers an online Pension Credit calculator on GOV.UK, requiring details of earnings, pensions, benefits and any assets for both partners. Approved payments are deposited into the same account used for the State Pension.